Tent and motorhome pitches on Sanday, Orkney, with showers and easy access to beaches and coastal walks.
About Ayre's Rock Hostel and Camp Site
Ayre's Rock Hostel and Camp Site occupies the Isle of Sanday in Orkney, an island reached by ferry or small plane. The site takes tent pitches and motorhome pitches, with shower facilities on-site. It is the main accommodation option on an island of around 500 people, so isolation is part of the appeal and the reality.
Sanday is known for its beaches—long stretches of sand occupy much of the eastern shore—and for walking routes across low moorland with views to neighbouring islands. The archaeological sites are numerous: chambered tombs, standing stones and the ruins of a 12th-century chapel all lie within reach on foot or by short drive. Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers find the island rewarding. A small shop, school and church serve the local population; there are no pubs, restaurants or other commercial services on the island itself.
Good to know
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Details via Google — worth confirming with the site before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Visitors say this campsite offers stunning views, well-maintained facilities, and delicious homemade meals and breakfasts prepared by a chef. They also highlight the friendly and helpful staff, who create a welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate the convenient option to purchase fresh eggs and ready meals on-site.
Summary via Google
Can I bring...?
Hook-up
No electric hook-up listed — worth confirming directly if you're bringing a caravan or motorhome.
Facilities
No takeaway delivery found for this location (KW17 2AY) on Just Eat or Deliveroo — you'll likely need to bring or buy supplies before you arrive.
Opening hours
- Monday
- 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday
- 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday
- 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Breakfast hours
- Monday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Tuesday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Wednesday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Thursday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Friday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Saturday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
- Sunday
- 7:30 – 11:00 AM
Access hours
- Monday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM
What visitors say
The most beautiful campsite: We stayed with our van for two nights, and wished we could stay for two weeks. The views from our van were utterly amazing, with endless birdlife and a seal passing by. Superb modern shower room. Spotless facilities. We valued the large dining kitchen area and ability to purchase delicious meals directly from the ‘Site Office’. Made on the premises by Chef Phillip. We even bought some to take away. Special thanks to Claire for her kind and warm welcome. Indeed one of the most perfect sites we have ever been fortunate to stay in. Thank you.
· via Google
We stayed here for a night in our camper. Claire is a wonderful host, friendly and helpful. The site is in a great spot with a lovely view. Facilities are lovely and clean. We had breakfast here the morning we left and it was delicious!! Definately recommend staying here if your spending anytime on Sanday.
· via Google
A fantasic little place, very neat and tidy. Great facilities. I camped in February - wet and with very high winds! Claire kindly offered me a bed in the bothy if it all got too much (it didnt) but how very kind! Beautiful views from the tent (and glamping pods). Highly recommended.
· via Google
Beautiful location, friendly hosts. They have lovely, clean facilities for campers and also stock a fridge full of home made ready meals and make hot food to order on site. Very reasonably priced and delicious, they also sell eggs, laid by their own chickens. I would recommend them for an overnight stay and also a lunch or breakfast stop. Places like this in Orkney are few and far between.
· via Google
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